Here's how to stock your spring break closet on a dime

Spring Break is a key transitioning time in the world of fashion. It’s the moment when everyone boxes up their sweaters and jeans and breaks out their shorts and tank tops. However, without fail, every year, as the sundresses and floppy hats are dusted off, people everywhere find their warm-weather closets to be inadequate. Whether you grew a few inches, gained a little weight, or just realized how tired you are of that seersucker skirt you bought four years ago, it’s often necessary to take a spring break shopping spree. Here are a few places to search for a fresh spring wardrobe without breaking your bank.

Plato’s Closet

Plato’s Closet is like a thrift store on steroids. They buy gently used clothing items from anyone who wishes to clean out their closets, and in turn, they sell the clothes in their store for an extremely discounted prices. Just about all of their clothes, dresses and shoes are priced at or under $12. They offer current brands and styles that can still be found (with higher price tags, of course) in other stores and malls. Plato’s Closet in Tuscaloosa is located at 2356 McFarland Blvd, and it is open from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. on weekdays and from 12 p.m.-6 p.m. on Sundays.

TJ Maxx

Everyone knows about TJ Maxx, but not everyone is a true Maxxinista – and that, my friends, is a shame. TJ Maxx buys surplus merchandise from designer and brand name companies and sells it for 20-60 percent below the original prices. They have a home and cosmetic departments as well as a clothing departments, so if you need some new highlighter or a yoga mat to tan on, then TJ Maxx can fulfill all your vacationing needs in one trip to the store. The Tuscaloosa TJ Maxx is located at 2600 McFarland Blvd. It is open Monday – Saturday from 9:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.

Dirt Cheap

Dirt Cheap offers a multitude of products for extremely discounted prices. From cleaning supplies, to pool floats, to books, to clothes, they can supply just about anything on your Spring Break shopping list. If you play your cards right, you could buy a new outfit, some reading material, a beach umbrella, and some sunscreen with nothing but a $20 bill and a bargain-hunting spirit. The Dirt Cheap in Tuscaloosa is located at 1500 Skyland Blvd. It is open from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Monday through Saturday and from 12 p.m.-7 p.m. on Sundays.

Rainbow

Rainbow is somewhat of a hidden gem. Located within the University Mall, it sells a variety of clothes for low prices. Though it does not offer housewares like some of the other stores, it has bathing suit options for costs as low as $9.99 per piece. Rainbow is an option that can supply your clothing needs for sunbathing as well as dining out while on vacation. It is open from Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 p.m.-5:30 p.m.